This piece is not really that impressive beyond the fact that it’s just big and has a lot of pieces (which you’ll note is subtly different than being complicated). A simple familiarity with blowing glass reveals that making those tentacles is pretty easy. Sure it’s expensive materials-wize which is why lots of people don’t do it but if you have a lot of money and a big space this is actually pretty easy. Especially if you have the time. Basically all Chihuly did is just make a lot of twists and then stick them together. Which is cool, but I just think he gets too much credit is all.
Dale Chihuly: Nubs Down
Dale Chihuly having the self confidence to rock an eye patch instead of a prosthetic eyeball: Nubs Up
“Modern Art = I could do that + yeah, but you didn’t” – Craig Damraur
It is so refreshing to hear you opinion on this work. I totally agree. I think there are so many other artist working in glass, that are recognized and that make outstanding art many steps above Chihuly’s work .. for instance Judith Schaechter.
What we should be in awe of is how his company professionally promotes his product.
Check out this lame article found at (http://www.newtimesslo.com/art/3584/chihuly-over-slo/), BY ASHLEY SCHWELLENBACH, she starts out by comparing him to Andy Warhol, and then lists questions she would ask him… but doesn’t say why she didn’t or couldn’t get the interview!!!!
In ending, as the public is educated in the glass process, they will appreciate better work.
Best,
Joseph
I think Chihuly’s glass art is amazing. I encourage you to dive deeper into his realm as an artist. I once saw a t.v. special when he traveled Europe blowing glass in all of the oldest knows glass blowing communities, and then proceeds to integrate it all with elements of nature. Think giant glass spears stuck in the mud at the bottom of a slow meandering river, while the above water end rise majestically from the smooth surface, as colorfully blown globes float by. At the end of these installations, he broke all the pieces. AWESOME.
Just please don’t waste time talking about what you think is over rated, and tell me about some new artist you love, who is UNDER rated. that all… :)